Elementary School Profile

Education is an inspiring career choice that makes a lasting impression on young people’s lives. Teaching is more than just a profession; it’s a mission to nurture curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children.  If you’re passionate about shaping the next generation through a meaningful, fulfilling career, choosing the elementary school profile is your opportunity to make a difference every day.

What is the Role of an Elementary Teacher?

Elementary education is about more than teaching a diverse range of subjects—it’s about fostering curiosity, building trusting relationships, and creating a structured, supportive environment where young learners can thrive.

Elementary teachers are responsible for guiding students through a broad range of subjects, such as math, literacy, sciences, social sciences and the arts, all while helping them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They build the foundation for lifelong learning by nurturing students’ curiosity.

Beyond academics, elementary teachers play a key role in helping young students develop social and emotional skills, promoting resilience, and fostering positive behaviours that will benefit them both inside and outside the classroom.

What are the Advantages of Being an Elementary School Teacher?

Choosing a career in elementary education offers unique rewards, offering a profound opportunity to shape the lives of young learners during their most formative years. Beyond the intrinsic satisfaction of making a difference, this profession provides strong job stability, competitive salaries and benefits.

Teachers benefit from a structured yet dynamic work environment where no two days are the same, with opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and engage with families to build a supportive educational community. Elementary education offers continuous opportunities for professional growth, including access to workshops, advanced certifications, and educational technology training.

This career is ideal for those who value personal fulfillment, intellectual engagement, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to society by inspiring and empowering the next generation.

How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in Quebec

Becoming a licensed teacher in Quebec starts here! At Bishop’s University, our Elementary Education program guides you through every step to graduate with the qualifications needed to apply for your teaching license and make a difference in students’ lives.

Complete a rigorous, practice-based Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree tailored for elementary teaching

To earn a Bachelor of Education in Teaching and Learning at the Elementary Level, students must complete a 150-credit program (120-credit program for students entering with a CEGEP diploma). Please also note that credits earned in certain DEC programs (Early Childhood Care and Education) or in other university programs may be recognized.

The possibility of recognition of additional credits is evaluated after admission.

Successfully complete your supervised field placements in real classrooms

Students must successfully complete the requirements of all practica components to complete the B.Ed. with recommendation to the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement Supérieur (MEES) for the brevet d’enseignement (Teaching Certificate).

Fulfill the Quebec Ministry of Education certification requirements, including the English Exam for Teacher Certification (EETC)

Students in all B.Ed. programs are required to pass the EETC approved by the Ministère de l’Éducation, et de l’Enseignement supérieur (MEES) prior to the fourth practicum (EDU 428/439). Success on this exam is a requirement for progression through the program. Although Bishop’s assists in coordinating the test, it is not a Bishop’s examination.

Explore our Academic Calendar for full program requirements

How portable is a Teaching Degree from Bishop’s?

Our program ensures you meet provincial licensing requirements, enabling you to teach anywhere in Quebec immediately. A teacher education degree obtained in Quebec is recognized across all of Canada, however some provinces and territories may impose additional requirements for certification. Therefore, it is highly recommended to visit the websites of the certification agencies in the specific provinces or territories where you intend to teach after completing your degree.

Teacher candidates who wish to teach in another province or in another country must first apply for and receive a Teacher Certification in Quebec before applying directly to the Teacher Certification Agency in the other relevant province or country.

Are Elementary Teachers in Demand?

Elementary school teachers are in high demand, especially in Quebec, where rising student enrollment and teacher retirements are creating abundant opportunities across the province. From rural communities to urban centres, schools are actively seeking passionate and qualified educators.

As a future-proof career, teaching offers long-term stability, meaningful work, and opportunities for growth, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make a lasting impact.

Why Choose Education at Bishop’s?

At Bishop’s University’s School of Education, we are committed to preparing future educators who inspire, engage, and empower young learners, ensuring they are equipped to make a lasting impact during their students’ most formative years. We do this by providing:

A Personalized Learning Environment

You’ll benefit from small class sizes and close mentorship from experienced faculty who are committed to your success. This personalized approach ensures that your academic and professional growth is supported every step of the way, allowing you to develop confidence in your skills and teaching methods.

Innovative Curriculum

Our program equips future educators with essential knowledge in teaching, learning, and classroom management. Foundational courses will guide you to understanding the psychological and social aspects of education and focus on creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. These courses focus on designing motivating learning situations and creating environments that stimulate the love of learning.

Through practical, targeted methods courses, students develop real-world strategies for teaching complex concepts while exploring the pedagogical use of technology to enhance teaching practices. You will engage with interdisciplinary teaching approaches with an emphasis on individual differences, inclusive and culturally responsive practices.

Aspiring educators will also develop assessment tools that provide constructive feedback and learn effective strategies for interacting with parents and the school team to support student success. Beyond the core curriculum, electives allow students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Extensive Practicum Experiences

Our field placements allow you to apply what you learn in real classroom settings. Starting from your first year, you’ll work closely with professional educators starting with classroom observations, to full-class responsibilities in your final year. Over your degree, you’ll complete a minimum of 700 hours of hands-on practical experience.

Community Connections

You’ll benefit from partnerships with local schools and organizations, fostering a strong sense of community and practical experience. These partnerships ensure that students receive mentorship from experienced educators, receive real-world teaching opportunities, and a network of connections that can help launch their careers.

Bishop’s University has established close partnerships with school boards across the region, providing our students with diverse and enriching field experiences. Some of these include the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB), the English Montreal School Board (EMSB), and the Central Quebec School Board (CQSB). You’ll work with vibrant English-language schools such as Lennoxville Elementary in Sherbrooke, Bancroft Elementary in Montreal, and St. Patrick’s Elementary in Quebec City.  Through the multiple years of experience, you’ll gain confidence in bilingual and multicultural settings, learn to incorporate inclusive teaching practices, and develop skills in integrating technology into the classroom.

Next Steps

Choosing to teach in an elementary setting can be a hugely rewarding and dynamic career choice. Bishop’s offers a comprehensive B.Ed. program that will encourage you to develop autonomy, critical reflection, and leadership skills.

We encourage you to keep exploring what it’s like to study at Bishop’s by booking a tour, or if you’re ready, apply!